NEW DELHI: Pakistani High Commissioner to India Aziz Ahmad Khan said on Monday that his country was ready to discuss New Delhi's concerns that Islamabad was not doing enough to prevent terrorist activities against India.

Respondingto India's position that Islamabad had been found wanting on the anti-terrorist front, Mr. Khan said, "Let's talk about it — where do they [the Indian side] feel we are not doing enough. What is the evidence we are not doing enough."

Talking to The Hindu , the High Commissioner said Pakistan stood by its January 2004 commitment that it would not allow its territory to be used by terrorists. "Pakistan has given a commitment, Pakistan stands by that commitment. Pakistan is not allowing its territory to be used for terrorism," he said.

The statement issued by the two countries on January 6, 2004, had said "[Pakistani] President [Pervez] Musharraf reassured Prime Minister Vajpayee that he will not permit any territory under Pakistan's control to be used to support terrorism in any manner."

According to the High Commissioner, Pakistan had taken all measures not to allow its territory to be used for terrorism. "We ourselves are victims of terrorism, we are fighting international terrorism and our cooperation in this fight is greatly appreciated."

Describing the Mumbai blasts as "a criminal act, a tragic incident," Mr. Khan said innocent lives were lost in the attacks. "We have strongly condemned the Mumbai blasts — at the level of the official spokesperson, the President and the Prime Minister." Asked if India's decision to put off Foreign Secretary-level talks scheduled for July 21 was a setback to the peace process, he responded, "I still would, personally, remain positive about it. Yes, it should not have been postponed. We should have continued talking; there is no alternative to dialogue."

The High Commissioner said Pakistan was willing to examine "very seriously" any evidence relating to the Mumbai blasts that New Delhi could share with Islamabad. "We have given a commitment that we are there to fight terrorism. We cannot condone terrorism. Continuing talks would be beneficial for this process. So, we hope the dates [for the Foreign Secretary-level] for talks would be set soon."

Mr. Khan was also hopeful that discussions between Foreign Ministers would be agreed upon soon. "We hope these meetings are held sooner rather than later," he added.

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